Easy & Authentic Homemade Ponzu Sauce
Let’s make ponzu sauce, a classic Japanese condiment that balances a refreshing citrus aroma and tartness with the savory richness of soy sauce. Store-bought versions are convenient, but it's surprisingly easy to create an authentic flavor at home.
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Servings: 1
Ingredients
- 4 Tbsp mirin (if you follow Step 1)
- 3 Tbsp mirin (if you skip Step 1)
- 7 Tbsp soy sauce
- 2 Tbsp rice vinegar
- 3 Tbsp citrus juice (If available, use yuzu, sudachi, kabosu, or daidai for a more authentic flavor. If these are hard to find, a 2:1 ratio of lemon and lime juice works well as a substitute.)
- a small piece of kombu (kelp) (optional, about 0.1 oz/3 g)
- ¼ cup bonito flakes (katsuobushi) (optional)
Instructions
- (Optional) Add mirin to a pot and bring it to a boil. Once it comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until the alcohol smell has dissipated. Then, remove it from the heat and let it cool to room temperature.(Note: This step cooks off the small amount of alcohol in the mirin. If the ponzu sauce is intended for adults and will not be consumed by children, you can omit this step.)
- In a clean container, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, and mirin, then squeeze in the citrus juice and mix well. For extra umami flavor, you can optionally include kombu and/or bonito flakes.
- Cover the container and let it rest in the refrigerator for a few days to a week. (Letting it rest mellows the acidity. Even if you plan to use it right away, let it rest for at least a few hours.)If you have used kombu or bonito flakes, be sure to remove (strain) them after steeping overnight (about 3-9 hours). Leaving them in for too long can cause the liquid to gradually become cloudy and develop a strong, distinctive odor.
Notes
- The total time doesn't include rest time.
- You can store it in the refrigerator for up to a month.
Nutrition
Calories: 169.38kcal Carbohydrates: 31.87g Protein: 13.72g Fat: 0.15g Saturated Fat: 0.02g Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.06g Monounsaturated Fat: 0.02g Sodium: 7544.34mg Potassium: 369.66mg Fiber: 1.24g Sugar: 14.37g Vitamin A: 3.93IU Vitamin C: 18.09mg Calcium: 41.61mg Iron: 3.19mg
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